August 25, By Christian Murray
Alewife NYC, a popular Long Island City bar, has plans to break into the brewing business.
The owners of the pub, located at 5-14 51st Ave, are currently applying to the state liquor authority seeking the permits necessary to brew beer in a section of the bar.
The owners believe that becoming a brewpub will help them become more of a New York City destination spot. Presently, the pub is known throughout Long Island City for its wide selection of craft beer.
“We have a clean liquor license and hope to have the permits within about four months,” said Patrick Donagher, who owns Alewife with his wife, Roz, and Daniel Lanigan.
Donagher said he would start brewing with a one-barrel system to see how the beer is initially received by Alewife customers.
He would brew about four different batches a week. If all goes well he would expand to a five-barrel brewing system—and distribute it to bars and restaurants throughout the 5 boroughs.
However, even a one-barrel system produces a lot of beer. A one-barrel batch generates about 250 US-size pints.
Donagher said he is planning to convert one of the bar’s two kitchens into a brewing space. They would put in a glass window so pub goers could view the brewing process.
He said that brewing his own beer is something that he has always wanted to do and that Alewife is a good venue for brewing given its large space.
Donagher is working with Charlie Wildman, a brew master who’s helping him put together a selection of brews.
